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Zovirax

(other types of Zovirax)
generic name: Acyclovir (learn more about brand vs. generic drugs)

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Information on Zovirax

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Learn more about usage, cautions, and possible side effects .

15gm Tube
Chemical Name: ACYCLOVIR (ay-SYE-kloe-veer)

Common uses
Zovirax 5% Ointment is an antiviral used to treat genital herpes and some other herpes simplex infections of the skin or mucous membranes. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Before using
INFORM YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding.

Directions
Follow the directions for using Zovirax 5% Ointment provided by your doctor. For best results, begin using Zovirax 5% Ointment as soon as you notice any symptoms of herpes. Wash and completely dry the affected area. Use a finger cot or rubber glove to apply Zovirax 5% Ointment. Gently rub the medicine in until it is evenly distributed. Apply enough medicine to cover all sores. Wash your hands after using Zovirax 5% Ointment. STORE ZOVIRAX 5% OINTMENT at room temperature between 59 and 77 degrees F (15 and 25 degrees C), in a tightly closed container, away from heat, moisture, and light. TO CLEAR UP YOUR INFECTION COMPLETELY, continue using Zovirax 5% Ointment for the full course of treatment even if you feel better in a few days. Do not miss any doses. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF ZOVIRAX 5% OINTMENT, use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.

Cautions
DO NOT USE ZOVIRAX 5% OINTMENT if you have had an allergic reaction to it, to valacyclovir, or are allergic to any ingredient in this product. DO NOT EXCEED THE RECOMMENDED DOSE or use Zovirax 5% Ointment for longer than prescribed without checking with your doctor. DO NOT GET ZOVIRAX 5% OINTMENT IN YOUR EYES or on the inside of your nose or mouth. If Zovirax 5% Ointment gets in your eyes, flush them with cool tap water. ZOVIRAX 5% OINTMENT WILL NOT PREVENT the spread of infection to others. DO NOT USE ZOVIRAX 5% OINTMENT to prevent future infections. FOR WOMEN: IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using Zovirax 5% Ointment during pregnancy. IT IS UNKNOWN IF ZOVIRAX 5% OINTMENT IS EXCRETED in breast milk. IF YOU ARE OR WILL BE BREAST-FEEDING while you are using Zovirax 5% Ointment, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby. Do not breastfeed your baby if you have active herpes lesions near or on your breasts.

Possible side effects
SIDE EFFECTS that may occur while using Zovirax 5% Ointment include mild pain, burning, or stinging when the medicine is first applied to the skin. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. An allergic reaction to Zovirax 5% Ointment is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist. This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your healthcare provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Drug interactions
Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Use our drug interaction checker to find out if your medicines interact with each other. Check drug interactions

If you take too much
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Zovirax 5% Ointment may be harmful if swallowed.

Additional information
DO NOT SHARE ZOVIRAX 5% OINTMENT with others for whom it was not prescribed. DO NOT USE ZOVIRAX 5% OINTMENT for other health conditions. KEEP ZOVIRAX 5% OINTMENT out of the reach of children. IF USING ZOVIRAX 5% OINTMENT FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME, obtain refills before your supply runs out.

Selected data included with permission and copyrighted by Medi-Span, 2010. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a Licensed data provider and is not for distribution in professional healthcare settings.
The name and strength of the drug discussed above has been provided for clarity by drugstore.com, inc. and without the express permission of Medi-Span, and Medi-Span makes no representation as to the accuracy of such additional information.